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Body doubling, with a real person.

Body doubling means doing a task while someone else is present. Many people find it easier to start and keep going that way. On Palhour you can book a pal to sit with you, online or in person, for as long as the session lasts.

What is body doubling?

A body double is a person who works alongside you. They don't do your task and they don't supervise you. Their presence is the point. People use body doubling for studying, deep work, admin, cleaning and other tasks that are easy to put off. It is popular in ADHD communities, and plenty of people without a diagnosis use it too. It is a productivity technique, not a treatment.

Learn more in our guide: What is body doubling?

Body doubling on Palhour

  1. Choose online or in person

    Online sessions run in the Palhour session room. In-person sessions happen in public places such as a library or café.

  2. Set the rules

    Comfortable silence, a quick check-in at the start, or encouragement when you ask for it.

  3. Work side by side

    Your pal stays for the agreed time while you get on with your task.

  4. Pay only when it's done

    Palhour holds the payment until you tap All good, or 24 hours after the session.

Good tasks for a body double

  • Studying for an exam or writing an essay
  • Inbox, paperwork and taxes
  • Cleaning, decluttering or packing
  • Creative work you keep postponing
  • Job applications

Pals set their own price.

We suggest $20 an hour. You see the exact price before you book, pay through Palhour, and the money is held until you tap All good. Cancel free up to 1 hour before.

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Questions

Is body doubling online free on Palhour?

Pals set their own prices. We suggest $20 an hour as a guide. You see the exact price before you book.

Do I need to turn my camera on?

That's part of the rules you agree with your pal before the session.

Can body doubling help with ADHD?

Many people with ADHD say it helps them start and stay on task. Palhour doesn't offer medical advice or treatment; talk to a professional about your health.

How long is a session?

Each pal sets the length of their service, from 15 minutes to 4 hours.

Bring a pal for something else